[OVERVIEW]
Aegislash is a great defensive wall in Balanced Hackmons, having high mixed defenses and many resistances. This allows Aegislash to switch into common -ate users like Mega Diancie and Kyurem-B as well as powerful wallbreakers like Mega Mewtwo Y and Mega Rayquaza to a certain extent. Although they usually bring coverage moves that can hit Aegislash super effectively, it can utilize Flash Fire to take on coverage moves like V-Create and Blue Flare or threaten to bring then down with a Prankster Destiny Bond. Aegislash's Ghost typing also gives it an edge over other Steel-types, as its immunity to Fighting- and Normal-type attacks allows it to switch into Pokemon like Mega Mewtwo X and Shedinja and to perform the role of a spinblocker.
However, Aegislash is weak to several common types like Ground, Fire, Dark, and Ghost. This means it is unable to completely wall Psychic- and Fairy-types like Mega Mewtwo X or Mega Diancie, which can hit it super effectively with their coverage moves like Knock Off and Precipice Blades. This also means it cannot completely wall -ate users, as it cannot cover both its weaknesses to Ground and Fire at the same time. Its weakness to Dark leaves it vulnerable to Pursuit trapping from the likes of Yveltal and Mega Tyranitar, leaving Aegislash with low health as it switches out against them, allowing foes to break through it much more easily. Because of its weakness to common utility moves like Knock Off and Spectral Thief, it cannot wall common defensive Pokemon like Giratina, Yveltal, and Primal Kyogre, which can be achieved by other Steel-types. Therefore, it faces stiff competition in this aspect from other Steel-types like Registeel and Celesteela, with the former having better bulk and the latter being able to better handle Psychic- and Fairy-types and even Primal Groudon with the combination of an immunity to Ground-type moves and Primordial Sea or Flash Fire. Both of them have situationally better typing as well, as Registeel does not have a crippling weakness to Dark- and Ghost-type, preventing it from being heavily weakened from Pursuit trapping, and Celesteela is immune to Ground-type attacks without Levitate while also being neutral to Dark and Ghost. This means they are able to handle Regigigas better than Aegislash, as Regigigas commonly brings a Dark- or Ghost-type coverage move. Aegislash's low HP stat also hinders its ability to effectively check powerful wallbreakers like Choice Specs Mega Rayquaza or Sheer Force Mega Mewtwo Y and forcing it to recover more often. It dislikes entry hazards, mainly Spikes, as they turn 3HKOs into potential 2HKOs, for example, Boomburst from Choice Specs Mega Rayquaza or even Spectral Thief from defensive Primal Kyogre. Its Speed is also higher than common pivots like Registeel and Mega Audino, so it will be less effective as a slow pivot, making it a large momentum drain against slower walls.
[SET]
name: Flash Fire
move 1: Spectral Thief / Topsy-Turvy
move 2: Shore Up
move 3: U-turn / Parting Shot / Baton Pass
move 4: Entrainment / Will-O-Wisp / Defog
item: Safety Goggles / Darkinium Z
ability: Flash Fire
nature: Sassy
ivs: 0 Spe
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Spectral Thief steals boosts from setup sweepers like Doom Desire Dialga or Mega Rayquaza. It also does decent damage to Pokemon that are weak to it, like Mega Mewtwo X and Mega Mewtwo Y. Topsy-Turvy is an alternative move to stop setup sweepers, as it can reverse all stat changes. It improves Aegislash's matchup against Normal-type setup sweepers like Regigigas. However, it cannot hit through Magic Bounce or Substitute. Shore Up provides Aegislash with a reliable recovery method, allowing it to switch into threats consistently. Aegislash can use U-turn on Pokemon that can't threaten it like Choice Band Mega Blaziken locked into V-Create or Dialga as they switch out to pivot out. It prevents Pokemon like Primal Groudon to gain a free switch against you. Parting Shot is another good way of pivoting out while also lowering the foe's offensive stats, although it is stopped by Taunt, Magic Bounce and Soundproof users like Dialga or Zygarde-C. Alternatively, Baton Pass can be used with Spectral Thief, as it can pass along stolen stats. However, it will also pass Leech Seed and any negative stat drop. It is also stopped by Taunt. It also makes imposter-proofing more difficult, as opponents can use Imposter to take advantage of Aegislash's stolen boosts and pass them to a teammate, forcing you into a difficult situation. Entrainment is used to cripple Pokemon that rely heavily on their abilities like Poison Heal, Magic Bounce, Regenerator, and -ate like Primal Kyogre, Mega Sceptile, and Mega Diancie. Will-O-Wisp can be used over Entrainment to cripple physical attackers like as Mega Mewtwo X and Pheromosa, burn Poison Heal users that have not activated their Toxic Orb, and beat Shedinja. It can also be used to chip away at Pokemon like Mega Mewtwo Y and scout for Magic Bounce users, as Aegislash is immune to Will-O-Wisp. Defog can take advantage of Aegislash's bulk to removes entry hazards safely for the team. Anchor Shot can be used over U-turn to trap and KO Fairy-types like Mega Audino or Mega Diancie, preventing Aegislash from being too passive.
Set Details
========
A Sassy nature with 0 Speed investment makes Aegislash's U-turn as slow as possible. Flash Fire removes Aegislash's Fire-type weakness, allowing it to take Blue Flare or V-Create from Mega Blaziken, Kyurem-White, Mega Mewtwo Y, and Mega Rayquaza. Safety Goggles allows Aegislash to be immune to Spore, allowing it to safely check Pokemon that use Spore like Triage Mega Rayquaza. Darkinium Z can be used in conjunction with Parting Shot to restore an incoming ally's HP to full. It also protects Aegislash from Trick and reduces damage from Knock Off. However, Aegislash will then be vulnerable to Spore and your team will lose the opportunity to use another Z-Move. Magic Bounce also stops Parting Shot, causing you to waste your Z-Move. Rocky Helmet can chip down Pokemon using U-turn and punish -ate users with Fake Out and Extreme Speed, but it is generally inferior to the listed options.
Usage Tips
========
You should use Team Preview to identify Pokemon that Aegislash can potentially wall, like Mega Blaziken, Magic Guard Mega Diancie, Dialga, or Shedinja, and keep it healthy throughout the match to check these Pokemon safely. If Aegislash is not needed to wall these Pokemon, use U-turn liberally to gain momentum, scout for abilities using Entrainment, and chip down opposing Pokemon with Will-O-Wisp. If the opponent has Pokemon that can threaten Aegislash, like Mega Gengar and Yveltal, be sure to U-turn out when it comes in to check another Pokemon, and come back in on double switches to keep yourself healthy, such as against Mega Mewtwo X or Dialga. Make sure to scout for any coverage moves from Pokemon that Aegislash would otherwise check, like Earth Power or Moongeist Beam from Mega Mewtwo Y and Mega Rayquaza, or you risk Aegislash being severely weakened. You should be careful when switching into other defensive Pokemon like Mega Audino or Solgaleo, as they may knock its Safety Goggles off, affecting its ability to check Pokemon with Spore. Some defensive Pokemon like Celesteela or Dialga may also bring Spectral Thief, doing decent amounts of damage and forcing Aegislash to recover. Using Darkinium Z will also make you vulnerable to Spore, so you should scout for it when using Darkinium Z. If Aegislash is running Topsy-Turvy, be aware of setup sweepers with Magic Bounce or Substitute, as you will be giving them a free turn to set up and therefore lose a lot of momentum in the process. If Parting Shot is the chosen pivot move, scout for Soundproof users, as they gain boosts from it and block it respectively. Use U-turn liberally if Aegislash has a decent amount of health, otherwise, use Shore Up to keep it healthy enough to check Pokemon like Mega Mewtwo Y or Mega Rayquaza safely.
Team Options
========
Aegislash's resistances and weaknesses allow it to synergize easily with other defensive Pokemon like Zygarde-C, Mega Audino, and Yveltal. Fairy-type Pokemon such as Xerneas or Mega Audino help Aegislash against Dark-types such as Yveltal or Mega Tyranitar. However, to switch into Knock Off, make sure their Toxic Orb has been activated if using Poison Heal, or they will be crippled throughout the match. An alternative anti-setup Pokemon such as Prankster Haze from Zygarde-C or Unaware users like Mega Audino and Mega Gyarados is useful, as Aegislash invites setup sweepers which are able to force Aegislash out like Yveltal, and if running Topsy-Turvy, Magic Bounce setup sweepers. Imposter users are also quite helpful in helping Aegislash check powerful wallbreakers by scouting for their coverage moves. This allows you to make the appropiate plays in order not to let Aegislash get overwhelmed by a surprise coverage move. A secondary -ate check is appreciated, as they can blow past Aegislash if running Ground-type coverage like Precipice Blades from Mega Diancie, and Aegislash is rather vulnerable to -ate users with Choice Specs like Mega Rayquaza or Kyurem-W. A check to Mega Gengar like Yveltal or Primal Kyogre is necessary, as Aegislash invites in Mega Gengar and gives it a free turn to set up if Aegislash did not U-turn on it. Physical walls like Zygarde-C or Giratina can take strong physical attacks, mainly Ground-type attacks, from the likes of Primal Groudon or Mega Garchomp for Aegislash. Aside from these physical walls, a check to Regigigas like Magic Bounce Tyranitar is also appreciated, as Aegislash fails to reliably check it due to its Ghost typing. An answer to Primal Kyogre is required, as offensive sets can easily overwhelm it with its powerful attacks. Examples include RegenVest Primal Kyogre or Red Orb Groudon with recovery. Pokemon that rely on Fire- and Fighting-type coverage like Mega Sceptile and Mega Blaziken can be used as teammates that are imposter-proof by Aegislash. You could also tweak sets so that they can be imposter-proofed by Aegislash, such as Choice Band Kartana and Pixilate or Refrigerate Mega Mewtwo X.
[SET]
name: Prankster
move 1: Haze / Encore / Topsy-Turvy
move 2: Shore Up
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Destiny Bond / Entrainment
item: Safety Goggles
ability: Prankster
nature: Sassy
ivs: 0 Spe
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Prankster Haze can remover setup, as it cannot be blocked by Dazzling nor Dark-type's immunity to Prankster moves. Encore is an option over Haze to lock setup sweepers into their boosting moves and cause general disruption in the opponent's game plan; however, it is very prediction-reliant and will lose a lot of momentum if predicted wrongly or even allow the foe to KO Aegislash. Its lack of PP also makes it an inferior choice as it will be less useful in matchups where you are forced to PP stall. Topsy Turvy can reverse stat changes of setup sweepers like Mega Mewtwo Y and BellyBurden Necrozma-DM. However, it will worsen Aegislash's matchup against Pokemon with Magic Bounce and Dazzling and Dark-type setup sweepers like Yveltal. This moveslot should be tailored to what your team needs, whether it be a check to setup sweepers or a utility Prankster user. Shore Up recovers 50% of Aegislash's health, improving its longevity. U-turn prevents Aegislash from being a sitting duck against Pokemon it cannot check by pivoting out from an unfavorable matchup. It cannot be blocked by any means, unlike other pivot moves. Destiny Bond can be used to put an emergency stop to a sweep, however, it will cost the loss of Aegislash in the game and may put you at a disadvantage for losing a utility Pokemon on your team. Entrainment removes abilities such as Poison Heal, Regenerator and -ate, and helps the team to check them. Parting Shot is an option in the last slot alongside U-turn as a way of pivoting while preventing Rocky Helmet chip and lowers the foe's offensive stats as it switches out. This is especially useful against powerful wallbreakers like Adaptability Mega Garchomp or Sheer Force Mega Mewtwo Y, as it lowers their offensive stats and allows Aegislash's teammates to deal with them more easily. It also helps Aegislash to pivot out quickly if you have double switched it in an unfavourable matchup, such as against Mega Gengar or Primal Kyogre. However, it is blocked by Magic Bounce, Soundproof, Dazzling, and Dark-types, making Aegislash more susceptible to Pursuit trapping.
Set Details
========
Safety Goggles prevent Spore from crippling Aegislash, letting it beat setup sweepers that use Spore. Prankster gives Aegislash priority status moves, and is useful for stopping setup sweepers with Prankster Haze, healing up with Shore Up before the foe attacks and removing and scouting abilities with Entrainment. Prankster Destiny Bond is also useful in putting a stop to setup sweepers that threaten to 6-0 to the team. A Sassy nature with 0 Speed investment allows Aegislash to fit the role as a slow pivot and preventing Core Enforcer from faster defensive Pokemon from removing its ability, such as that from Dialga or Celesteela. However, it will not affect Parting Shot, as it is boosted by Prankster, allowing Aegislash to pivot out without having to take a hit or double switch. Darkinium Z should used with Parting Shot to fully heal the incoming Pokemon when using Z-Parting Shot. Holding a Darkinium Z can also prevent Trick and reduce Knock Off damage. However, it is easily blocked with the common Magic Bounce, Soundproof, Dazzling and Dark-types, so it should be used with caution so the Z-Move won't be wasted.
Usage Tips
========
Bring Aegislash in on Pokemon it walls like Dialga so their movesets can be scouted beforehand. Despite the mentioned advantages, it is best to switch Aegislash through a slow pivot move or predicted boosting moves from the foe so as to reduce damage taken to improve Aegislash's general longevity and effectiveness. When running Parting Shot, scout for opposing Magic Bounce or Soundproof users. Magic Bounce will give opponents a free switch, although it is beneficial for hazard-stacking teams by chipping away foes. Soundproof users force you to direct switch to maintain momentum. Dark-types also force you to direct switch, as they can block Prankster Parting Shot and Pursuit trap you. Aegislash has a lot of support options, so it is important to choose the right one for your team. Haze, for one, is generally the best option for stopping setup sweepers, but it tends to struggle against setup sweepers that can overwhelm Aegislash with powerful moves, such as Mega Mewtwo Y and Primal Kyogre. This is where Entrainment, alongside Topsy-Turvy or Encore, are best used, which Entrainment can change the foe's ability, Topsy-Turvy can reverse their boosts, and Encore can lock setup sweepers into their boosting moves, forcing them to switch out. However, one should use Encore with caution, as it has very little amount of PP, and can be easily taken advantage of if you predict wrongly, losing a lot of your momentum in the process. There is also a significant risk of using these moves, as they are all stopped by Dark-types, which means your Prankster user is unable to stop Dark-type setup sweepers without taking massive damage. When taking out a foe with Destiny Bond, it will make other setup sweepers on the opponent's team harder to deal with after Aegislash faints. Therefore, identify if you can take down the foe with an alternative method if Aegislash is still useful in checking certain Pokemon in the opponent's team. Even if the opponent did not KO you while you have Destiny Bond activated, you can simply U-turn out to prevent a loss of momentum. Therefore, a wrong prediction will not usually be too big of a deal, unless the setup sweeper is able to sweep through your entire team if it does not get taken down by Destiny Bond. Aegislash is pressed to check common threats like Mega Rayquaza, Regigigas and Dialga, so keep it healthy throughout the match if those threats are still present.
Team Options
========
Physically defensive walls like Fur Coat Zygarde-C or Giratina form an amazing defensive core with Aegislash, being able to take powerful physical attacks like V-Create or Precipice Blades for Aegislash and helps Aegislash take on Pokemon like Mega Tyranitar and Mega Garchomp. Mega Audino is an exceptional partner for Aegislash, with Aegislash taking Fighting-, Poison- and Steel- type attacks for Mega Audino and Mega Audino taking Ghost- and Dark-type attacks. Aegislash can also help Mega Audino with removing entry hazards, especially if Mega Audino is not running Poison Heal. All Mega Gengar varients is a huge problem for Aegislash, so checks to it like Yveltal or Mega Tyranitar can help with it. In addition, they can help pressure Giratina, which can otherwise switch into Aegislash. Pokemon that can deal with Regigigas are also important, as it can break through Aegislash with sleep moves and a super effective coverage move. Examples include Magic Bounce Steel-types and Mega Tyranitar, as well as Fur Coat users like Zygarde-C. Magic Bounce Steel-types and Mega Tyranitar can also help with Normalize Mega Gengar. You also need a Primal Kyogre check, like RegenVest Dialga and Primal Kyogre, Unaware Ferrothorn, and Imposter users, as Aegislash is easily overwhelmed by Primal Kyogre's powerful moves. Imposter can help scout for super effective coverage moves from Mega Mewtwo X and -ate users, allowing you to make the nessessary switches in order to beat them. An extra -ate check like RegenVest Primal Kyogre or Soundproof Mega Audino is needed, as Aegislash tends to get weakened rather quickly and may be unable to check them if it gets Pursuit trapped. Prankster moves do not work on Dark-types, so Fairy-types that take advantage of them like Xerneas or Mega Diancie are good Pokemon to take advantage of them. Attackers like Xerneas and Mega Mewtwo Y appreciate foes having their attack and special attack lowered from Parting Shot, so they will not take too much damage while switching in. Use Aegislash's Ghost typing to your advantage for customizing wallbreakers or sweepers that are imposter-proofed by Aegislash. This ranges from Triage Mega Rayquaza with Secret Sword to Pixilate or Refrigerate Mega Mewtwo X.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Magic Bounce is an option over Flash Fire, but it is better used on other Steel-types like Regigigas, which has superior bulk and a better matchup against bulky Pokemon like Giratina and setup sweepers like like Yveltal and Regigigas, as they do not have weaknesses to Dark- and Ghost-types. Mold Breaker Aegislash can Pursuit trap Shedinja and even set up entry hazards without fearing Magic Bounce. It also allows it to use Parting Shot without fear of the foe's ability. However, it has no other use other than the said ones. Levitate can be used to alleviate Aegislash's Ground-type weakness and better check Pokemon with Ground-type coverage like Earth Power from Mega Rayquaza or Mega Mewtwo Y or Precipice Blades from Mega Diancie. It also negates damages from Spikes, allowing Aegislash to remove entry hazards and switch in on Pokemon more easily. You could even use it to check Mega Garchomp, which can break through many unprepared teams. However, since Fire-type coverage is more common, Flash Fire will be the better ability, as it also allows Aegislash to take on V-Create from Pokemon like Mega Blaziken and Choice Band Kartana, as well as Will-O-Wisp.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Super Effective Coverage**: Aegislash is weak to common coverage types like Ground, Fire, Ghost, and Dark. Examples of Pokemon that use these are Mega Mewtwo Y, Mega Rayquaza, Xerneas, and Regigigas. Although the problem with its Ground- and Fire-type weakness can be alleviated by running Flash Fire or Levitate respectively, it takes up its ability slot and only one can be used.
**Mega Gengar**: Although it dislikes taking Spectral Thief, Mega Gengar is able to threaten Aegislash with its powerful Ghost-type STAB moves. It can also utilize the turn that Aegislash switches out to set up, forcing you to deal with it immediately, or just throw off a powerful move.
**Primal Groudon**: Primal Groudon is capable of threatening Aegislash with its powerful STAB moves no matter what set it runs. It is immune to Will-O-Wisp and can heal off the damage from Spectral Thief.
**Primal Kyogre**: Primal Kyogre's high Special Attack stat and high base-powered moves allow it to overwhelm Aegislash even for defensive sets. Defensive sets can heal off the damage from Aegislash's moves, while offensive sets completely disregard Aegislash's bulk. In return, Aegislash cannot do much in return due to Primal Kyogre's natural bulk.
**Powerful Wallbreakers**: Wallbreakers like Primal Kyogre, Sheer Force Mega Mewtwo Y, and Choice Specs Mega Rayquaza can threaten to 2HKO or even OHKO Aegislash with sheer power.
**Dark-types**: Dark-types that naturally force Aegislash out like Yveltal and Mega Tyranitar can use the free turn to set up and or use Knock Off to annoy your team. A lot of these Dark-types can also utilize Pursuit and Knock Off, rendering Aegislash unable to effectively check Pokemon and forcing a Pokemon to have its item removed respectively. They are also immune to Prankster moves barring Haze and setup sweepers can take advantage of Prankster Aegislash without Haze to set up.
[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[XxAwesomePlayzxX,406162]]
- Quality checked by: [[Gurpreet Patel (Sent you a Friend Request), 233142], [Electrolyte, 148072], ]
Aegislash is a great defensive wall in Balanced Hackmons, having high mixed defenses and many resistances. This allows Aegislash to switch into common -ate users like Mega Diancie and Kyurem-B as well as powerful wallbreakers like Mega Mewtwo Y and Mega Rayquaza to a certain extent. Although they usually bring coverage moves that can hit Aegislash super effectively, it can utilize Flash Fire to take on coverage moves like V-Create and Blue Flare or threaten to bring then down with a Prankster Destiny Bond. Aegislash's Ghost typing also gives it an edge over other Steel-types, as its immunity to Fighting- and Normal-type attacks allows it to switch into Pokemon like Mega Mewtwo X and Shedinja and to perform the role of a spinblocker.
However, Aegislash is weak to several common types like Ground, Fire, Dark, and Ghost. This means it is unable to completely wall Psychic- and Fairy-types like Mega Mewtwo X or Mega Diancie, which can hit it super effectively with their coverage moves like Knock Off and Precipice Blades. This also means it cannot completely wall -ate users, as it cannot cover both its weaknesses to Ground and Fire at the same time. Its weakness to Dark leaves it vulnerable to Pursuit trapping from the likes of Yveltal and Mega Tyranitar, leaving Aegislash with low health as it switches out against them, allowing foes to break through it much more easily. Because of its weakness to common utility moves like Knock Off and Spectral Thief, it cannot wall common defensive Pokemon like Giratina, Yveltal, and Primal Kyogre, which can be achieved by other Steel-types. Therefore, it faces stiff competition in this aspect from other Steel-types like Registeel and Celesteela, with the former having better bulk and the latter being able to better handle Psychic- and Fairy-types and even Primal Groudon with the combination of an immunity to Ground-type moves and Primordial Sea or Flash Fire. Both of them have situationally better typing as well, as Registeel does not have a crippling weakness to Dark- and Ghost-type, preventing it from being heavily weakened from Pursuit trapping, and Celesteela is immune to Ground-type attacks without Levitate while also being neutral to Dark and Ghost. This means they are able to handle Regigigas better than Aegislash, as Regigigas commonly brings a Dark- or Ghost-type coverage move. Aegislash's low HP stat also hinders its ability to effectively check powerful wallbreakers like Choice Specs Mega Rayquaza or Sheer Force Mega Mewtwo Y and forcing it to recover more often. It dislikes entry hazards, mainly Spikes, as they turn 3HKOs into potential 2HKOs, for example, Boomburst from Choice Specs Mega Rayquaza or even Spectral Thief from defensive Primal Kyogre. Its Speed is also higher than common pivots like Registeel and Mega Audino, so it will be less effective as a slow pivot, making it a large momentum drain against slower walls.
[SET]
name: Flash Fire
move 1: Spectral Thief / Topsy-Turvy
move 2: Shore Up
move 3: U-turn / Parting Shot / Baton Pass
move 4: Entrainment / Will-O-Wisp / Defog
item: Safety Goggles / Darkinium Z
ability: Flash Fire
nature: Sassy
ivs: 0 Spe
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Spectral Thief steals boosts from setup sweepers like Doom Desire Dialga or Mega Rayquaza. It also does decent damage to Pokemon that are weak to it, like Mega Mewtwo X and Mega Mewtwo Y. Topsy-Turvy is an alternative move to stop setup sweepers, as it can reverse all stat changes. It improves Aegislash's matchup against Normal-type setup sweepers like Regigigas. However, it cannot hit through Magic Bounce or Substitute. Shore Up provides Aegislash with a reliable recovery method, allowing it to switch into threats consistently. Aegislash can use U-turn on Pokemon that can't threaten it like Choice Band Mega Blaziken locked into V-Create or Dialga as they switch out to pivot out. It prevents Pokemon like Primal Groudon to gain a free switch against you. Parting Shot is another good way of pivoting out while also lowering the foe's offensive stats, although it is stopped by Taunt, Magic Bounce and Soundproof users like Dialga or Zygarde-C. Alternatively, Baton Pass can be used with Spectral Thief, as it can pass along stolen stats. However, it will also pass Leech Seed and any negative stat drop. It is also stopped by Taunt. It also makes imposter-proofing more difficult, as opponents can use Imposter to take advantage of Aegislash's stolen boosts and pass them to a teammate, forcing you into a difficult situation. Entrainment is used to cripple Pokemon that rely heavily on their abilities like Poison Heal, Magic Bounce, Regenerator, and -ate like Primal Kyogre, Mega Sceptile, and Mega Diancie. Will-O-Wisp can be used over Entrainment to cripple physical attackers like as Mega Mewtwo X and Pheromosa, burn Poison Heal users that have not activated their Toxic Orb, and beat Shedinja. It can also be used to chip away at Pokemon like Mega Mewtwo Y and scout for Magic Bounce users, as Aegislash is immune to Will-O-Wisp. Defog can take advantage of Aegislash's bulk to removes entry hazards safely for the team. Anchor Shot can be used over U-turn to trap and KO Fairy-types like Mega Audino or Mega Diancie, preventing Aegislash from being too passive.
Set Details
========
A Sassy nature with 0 Speed investment makes Aegislash's U-turn as slow as possible. Flash Fire removes Aegislash's Fire-type weakness, allowing it to take Blue Flare or V-Create from Mega Blaziken, Kyurem-White, Mega Mewtwo Y, and Mega Rayquaza. Safety Goggles allows Aegislash to be immune to Spore, allowing it to safely check Pokemon that use Spore like Triage Mega Rayquaza. Darkinium Z can be used in conjunction with Parting Shot to restore an incoming ally's HP to full. It also protects Aegislash from Trick and reduces damage from Knock Off. However, Aegislash will then be vulnerable to Spore and your team will lose the opportunity to use another Z-Move. Magic Bounce also stops Parting Shot, causing you to waste your Z-Move. Rocky Helmet can chip down Pokemon using U-turn and punish -ate users with Fake Out and Extreme Speed, but it is generally inferior to the listed options.
Usage Tips
========
You should use Team Preview to identify Pokemon that Aegislash can potentially wall, like Mega Blaziken, Magic Guard Mega Diancie, Dialga, or Shedinja, and keep it healthy throughout the match to check these Pokemon safely. If Aegislash is not needed to wall these Pokemon, use U-turn liberally to gain momentum, scout for abilities using Entrainment, and chip down opposing Pokemon with Will-O-Wisp. If the opponent has Pokemon that can threaten Aegislash, like Mega Gengar and Yveltal, be sure to U-turn out when it comes in to check another Pokemon, and come back in on double switches to keep yourself healthy, such as against Mega Mewtwo X or Dialga. Make sure to scout for any coverage moves from Pokemon that Aegislash would otherwise check, like Earth Power or Moongeist Beam from Mega Mewtwo Y and Mega Rayquaza, or you risk Aegislash being severely weakened. You should be careful when switching into other defensive Pokemon like Mega Audino or Solgaleo, as they may knock its Safety Goggles off, affecting its ability to check Pokemon with Spore. Some defensive Pokemon like Celesteela or Dialga may also bring Spectral Thief, doing decent amounts of damage and forcing Aegislash to recover. Using Darkinium Z will also make you vulnerable to Spore, so you should scout for it when using Darkinium Z. If Aegislash is running Topsy-Turvy, be aware of setup sweepers with Magic Bounce or Substitute, as you will be giving them a free turn to set up and therefore lose a lot of momentum in the process. If Parting Shot is the chosen pivot move, scout for Soundproof users, as they gain boosts from it and block it respectively. Use U-turn liberally if Aegislash has a decent amount of health, otherwise, use Shore Up to keep it healthy enough to check Pokemon like Mega Mewtwo Y or Mega Rayquaza safely.
Team Options
========
Aegislash's resistances and weaknesses allow it to synergize easily with other defensive Pokemon like Zygarde-C, Mega Audino, and Yveltal. Fairy-type Pokemon such as Xerneas or Mega Audino help Aegislash against Dark-types such as Yveltal or Mega Tyranitar. However, to switch into Knock Off, make sure their Toxic Orb has been activated if using Poison Heal, or they will be crippled throughout the match. An alternative anti-setup Pokemon such as Prankster Haze from Zygarde-C or Unaware users like Mega Audino and Mega Gyarados is useful, as Aegislash invites setup sweepers which are able to force Aegislash out like Yveltal, and if running Topsy-Turvy, Magic Bounce setup sweepers. Imposter users are also quite helpful in helping Aegislash check powerful wallbreakers by scouting for their coverage moves. This allows you to make the appropiate plays in order not to let Aegislash get overwhelmed by a surprise coverage move. A secondary -ate check is appreciated, as they can blow past Aegislash if running Ground-type coverage like Precipice Blades from Mega Diancie, and Aegislash is rather vulnerable to -ate users with Choice Specs like Mega Rayquaza or Kyurem-W. A check to Mega Gengar like Yveltal or Primal Kyogre is necessary, as Aegislash invites in Mega Gengar and gives it a free turn to set up if Aegislash did not U-turn on it. Physical walls like Zygarde-C or Giratina can take strong physical attacks, mainly Ground-type attacks, from the likes of Primal Groudon or Mega Garchomp for Aegislash. Aside from these physical walls, a check to Regigigas like Magic Bounce Tyranitar is also appreciated, as Aegislash fails to reliably check it due to its Ghost typing. An answer to Primal Kyogre is required, as offensive sets can easily overwhelm it with its powerful attacks. Examples include RegenVest Primal Kyogre or Red Orb Groudon with recovery. Pokemon that rely on Fire- and Fighting-type coverage like Mega Sceptile and Mega Blaziken can be used as teammates that are imposter-proof by Aegislash. You could also tweak sets so that they can be imposter-proofed by Aegislash, such as Choice Band Kartana and Pixilate or Refrigerate Mega Mewtwo X.
[SET]
name: Prankster
move 1: Haze / Encore / Topsy-Turvy
move 2: Shore Up
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Destiny Bond / Entrainment
item: Safety Goggles
ability: Prankster
nature: Sassy
ivs: 0 Spe
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Prankster Haze can remover setup, as it cannot be blocked by Dazzling nor Dark-type's immunity to Prankster moves. Encore is an option over Haze to lock setup sweepers into their boosting moves and cause general disruption in the opponent's game plan; however, it is very prediction-reliant and will lose a lot of momentum if predicted wrongly or even allow the foe to KO Aegislash. Its lack of PP also makes it an inferior choice as it will be less useful in matchups where you are forced to PP stall. Topsy Turvy can reverse stat changes of setup sweepers like Mega Mewtwo Y and BellyBurden Necrozma-DM. However, it will worsen Aegislash's matchup against Pokemon with Magic Bounce and Dazzling and Dark-type setup sweepers like Yveltal. This moveslot should be tailored to what your team needs, whether it be a check to setup sweepers or a utility Prankster user. Shore Up recovers 50% of Aegislash's health, improving its longevity. U-turn prevents Aegislash from being a sitting duck against Pokemon it cannot check by pivoting out from an unfavorable matchup. It cannot be blocked by any means, unlike other pivot moves. Destiny Bond can be used to put an emergency stop to a sweep, however, it will cost the loss of Aegislash in the game and may put you at a disadvantage for losing a utility Pokemon on your team. Entrainment removes abilities such as Poison Heal, Regenerator and -ate, and helps the team to check them. Parting Shot is an option in the last slot alongside U-turn as a way of pivoting while preventing Rocky Helmet chip and lowers the foe's offensive stats as it switches out. This is especially useful against powerful wallbreakers like Adaptability Mega Garchomp or Sheer Force Mega Mewtwo Y, as it lowers their offensive stats and allows Aegislash's teammates to deal with them more easily. It also helps Aegislash to pivot out quickly if you have double switched it in an unfavourable matchup, such as against Mega Gengar or Primal Kyogre. However, it is blocked by Magic Bounce, Soundproof, Dazzling, and Dark-types, making Aegislash more susceptible to Pursuit trapping.
Set Details
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Safety Goggles prevent Spore from crippling Aegislash, letting it beat setup sweepers that use Spore. Prankster gives Aegislash priority status moves, and is useful for stopping setup sweepers with Prankster Haze, healing up with Shore Up before the foe attacks and removing and scouting abilities with Entrainment. Prankster Destiny Bond is also useful in putting a stop to setup sweepers that threaten to 6-0 to the team. A Sassy nature with 0 Speed investment allows Aegislash to fit the role as a slow pivot and preventing Core Enforcer from faster defensive Pokemon from removing its ability, such as that from Dialga or Celesteela. However, it will not affect Parting Shot, as it is boosted by Prankster, allowing Aegislash to pivot out without having to take a hit or double switch. Darkinium Z should used with Parting Shot to fully heal the incoming Pokemon when using Z-Parting Shot. Holding a Darkinium Z can also prevent Trick and reduce Knock Off damage. However, it is easily blocked with the common Magic Bounce, Soundproof, Dazzling and Dark-types, so it should be used with caution so the Z-Move won't be wasted.
Usage Tips
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Bring Aegislash in on Pokemon it walls like Dialga so their movesets can be scouted beforehand. Despite the mentioned advantages, it is best to switch Aegislash through a slow pivot move or predicted boosting moves from the foe so as to reduce damage taken to improve Aegislash's general longevity and effectiveness. When running Parting Shot, scout for opposing Magic Bounce or Soundproof users. Magic Bounce will give opponents a free switch, although it is beneficial for hazard-stacking teams by chipping away foes. Soundproof users force you to direct switch to maintain momentum. Dark-types also force you to direct switch, as they can block Prankster Parting Shot and Pursuit trap you. Aegislash has a lot of support options, so it is important to choose the right one for your team. Haze, for one, is generally the best option for stopping setup sweepers, but it tends to struggle against setup sweepers that can overwhelm Aegislash with powerful moves, such as Mega Mewtwo Y and Primal Kyogre. This is where Entrainment, alongside Topsy-Turvy or Encore, are best used, which Entrainment can change the foe's ability, Topsy-Turvy can reverse their boosts, and Encore can lock setup sweepers into their boosting moves, forcing them to switch out. However, one should use Encore with caution, as it has very little amount of PP, and can be easily taken advantage of if you predict wrongly, losing a lot of your momentum in the process. There is also a significant risk of using these moves, as they are all stopped by Dark-types, which means your Prankster user is unable to stop Dark-type setup sweepers without taking massive damage. When taking out a foe with Destiny Bond, it will make other setup sweepers on the opponent's team harder to deal with after Aegislash faints. Therefore, identify if you can take down the foe with an alternative method if Aegislash is still useful in checking certain Pokemon in the opponent's team. Even if the opponent did not KO you while you have Destiny Bond activated, you can simply U-turn out to prevent a loss of momentum. Therefore, a wrong prediction will not usually be too big of a deal, unless the setup sweeper is able to sweep through your entire team if it does not get taken down by Destiny Bond. Aegislash is pressed to check common threats like Mega Rayquaza, Regigigas and Dialga, so keep it healthy throughout the match if those threats are still present.
Team Options
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Physically defensive walls like Fur Coat Zygarde-C or Giratina form an amazing defensive core with Aegislash, being able to take powerful physical attacks like V-Create or Precipice Blades for Aegislash and helps Aegislash take on Pokemon like Mega Tyranitar and Mega Garchomp. Mega Audino is an exceptional partner for Aegislash, with Aegislash taking Fighting-, Poison- and Steel- type attacks for Mega Audino and Mega Audino taking Ghost- and Dark-type attacks. Aegislash can also help Mega Audino with removing entry hazards, especially if Mega Audino is not running Poison Heal. All Mega Gengar varients is a huge problem for Aegislash, so checks to it like Yveltal or Mega Tyranitar can help with it. In addition, they can help pressure Giratina, which can otherwise switch into Aegislash. Pokemon that can deal with Regigigas are also important, as it can break through Aegislash with sleep moves and a super effective coverage move. Examples include Magic Bounce Steel-types and Mega Tyranitar, as well as Fur Coat users like Zygarde-C. Magic Bounce Steel-types and Mega Tyranitar can also help with Normalize Mega Gengar. You also need a Primal Kyogre check, like RegenVest Dialga and Primal Kyogre, Unaware Ferrothorn, and Imposter users, as Aegislash is easily overwhelmed by Primal Kyogre's powerful moves. Imposter can help scout for super effective coverage moves from Mega Mewtwo X and -ate users, allowing you to make the nessessary switches in order to beat them. An extra -ate check like RegenVest Primal Kyogre or Soundproof Mega Audino is needed, as Aegislash tends to get weakened rather quickly and may be unable to check them if it gets Pursuit trapped. Prankster moves do not work on Dark-types, so Fairy-types that take advantage of them like Xerneas or Mega Diancie are good Pokemon to take advantage of them. Attackers like Xerneas and Mega Mewtwo Y appreciate foes having their attack and special attack lowered from Parting Shot, so they will not take too much damage while switching in. Use Aegislash's Ghost typing to your advantage for customizing wallbreakers or sweepers that are imposter-proofed by Aegislash. This ranges from Triage Mega Rayquaza with Secret Sword to Pixilate or Refrigerate Mega Mewtwo X.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
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Magic Bounce is an option over Flash Fire, but it is better used on other Steel-types like Regigigas, which has superior bulk and a better matchup against bulky Pokemon like Giratina and setup sweepers like like Yveltal and Regigigas, as they do not have weaknesses to Dark- and Ghost-types. Mold Breaker Aegislash can Pursuit trap Shedinja and even set up entry hazards without fearing Magic Bounce. It also allows it to use Parting Shot without fear of the foe's ability. However, it has no other use other than the said ones. Levitate can be used to alleviate Aegislash's Ground-type weakness and better check Pokemon with Ground-type coverage like Earth Power from Mega Rayquaza or Mega Mewtwo Y or Precipice Blades from Mega Diancie. It also negates damages from Spikes, allowing Aegislash to remove entry hazards and switch in on Pokemon more easily. You could even use it to check Mega Garchomp, which can break through many unprepared teams. However, since Fire-type coverage is more common, Flash Fire will be the better ability, as it also allows Aegislash to take on V-Create from Pokemon like Mega Blaziken and Choice Band Kartana, as well as Will-O-Wisp.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Super Effective Coverage**: Aegislash is weak to common coverage types like Ground, Fire, Ghost, and Dark. Examples of Pokemon that use these are Mega Mewtwo Y, Mega Rayquaza, Xerneas, and Regigigas. Although the problem with its Ground- and Fire-type weakness can be alleviated by running Flash Fire or Levitate respectively, it takes up its ability slot and only one can be used.
**Mega Gengar**: Although it dislikes taking Spectral Thief, Mega Gengar is able to threaten Aegislash with its powerful Ghost-type STAB moves. It can also utilize the turn that Aegislash switches out to set up, forcing you to deal with it immediately, or just throw off a powerful move.
**Primal Groudon**: Primal Groudon is capable of threatening Aegislash with its powerful STAB moves no matter what set it runs. It is immune to Will-O-Wisp and can heal off the damage from Spectral Thief.
**Primal Kyogre**: Primal Kyogre's high Special Attack stat and high base-powered moves allow it to overwhelm Aegislash even for defensive sets. Defensive sets can heal off the damage from Aegislash's moves, while offensive sets completely disregard Aegislash's bulk. In return, Aegislash cannot do much in return due to Primal Kyogre's natural bulk.
**Powerful Wallbreakers**: Wallbreakers like Primal Kyogre, Sheer Force Mega Mewtwo Y, and Choice Specs Mega Rayquaza can threaten to 2HKO or even OHKO Aegislash with sheer power.
**Dark-types**: Dark-types that naturally force Aegislash out like Yveltal and Mega Tyranitar can use the free turn to set up and or use Knock Off to annoy your team. A lot of these Dark-types can also utilize Pursuit and Knock Off, rendering Aegislash unable to effectively check Pokemon and forcing a Pokemon to have its item removed respectively. They are also immune to Prankster moves barring Haze and setup sweepers can take advantage of Prankster Aegislash without Haze to set up.
[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[XxAwesomePlayzxX,406162]]
- Quality checked by: [[Gurpreet Patel (Sent you a Friend Request), 233142], [Electrolyte, 148072], ]
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